With new threats popping up left and right every single day, network security is becoming an increasingly important and complicated issue. Unfortunately, not a lot of small business owners are aware of how crucial network security is and most aren’t taking the trend seriously. This means that small businesses are especially vulnerable to security threats. The National Cyber Security Alliance reports that every year, 20 percent of small businesses experience a cyber attack. 60 of the businesses targeted close down within six months after the attack. If you’re the owner of a small business, you have to inform yourself on the basics of network security, have a thorough understanding of common network security threats, and learn about the many benefits network security offers your business. 

What Is Network Security?

Network security consists of any steps taken to protect the integrity of your company’s network and its data. Through software and hardware, network security solutions find and prevent a variety of cyber threats before they enter and spread throughout your network. A network security solution provides many layers of security, and will have several components that work in tandem to protect your network. Some examples are firewalls, anti-virus, anti-spyware programs, intrusion prevention systems, and virtual private networks that allow users to securely access the network from a remote location. 

Some Common Network Security Threats

Network security defends your small business against a range of network security threats. Some common threats include viruses, spyware, and malware. Virus spyware, and malware can install themselves through email and website visits. They can obtain sensitive information such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, and passwords through your network. Another threat is posed by professional hackers. Hackers are always discovering innovative ways to break into networks and stealing all critical company and customer data. Zero-day attacks are when a weakness in software is exploited by a hacker, and include malware, spyware, and unlawful access to user information. 

Benefits Of Network Security For Small Businesses

There are many ways small businesses can benefit from network security, such as the fact that they keep your network up and running safely, which assists with employee productivity. Here are some more reasons you should institute an effective network security solution:

• Helps your small business comply with government and industry specific regulations
• Scales quickly and easily depending on the ever changing needs of your small business
• Allows employees to work security from any location, no matter if they’re in the office,at home, or traveling.
• Boosts client and consumer confidence that their sensitive information is protected
• Lowers the recovery time if a security breach happens
• Provides you the flexibility to tap the expertise of virtual employees without having to give up security
• Lessens the fallout from security breaches, including legal action that can bankrupt your business

The time to explore your network security options is before an attack happens. Call Synergy Technology Solutions in Tampa for your network security solutions today!